Having come to the country in Nov 2022, I maybe a rookie to judge anything but this is the taste that would make me come back again!
So I am completely new to the UK. The first few things I want to do is to explore some local gourmets as soon as I have settled in this city. Jellied eel, despite not being the favourite of many, is definitely on the list. Unfortunately, a lot of old shops closed over the past few years for the reason-we-all-know-why. And the few survived may well be in deep struggle. I am glad that I found this place at the end.
I have tried 3 shops (1 in Barkingside and 1 famous one in Greenwich and the last one being this) serving this traditional dish in a month and by far this is the only shop that I’d recommend to any of my friends coming to London.
The pie - freshly baked and it’s able to maintain a full shape with an incredibly thin and crispy crust. Inside it’s very juicy. The beef paste is smooth and seasoned with just the right flavour which goes perfectly with the meat’s original taste.
The eel - personally, I think Chinese (Steamed with marinated soybean) and Japanese (Grilled with sauce / plain salt) do eel better. But the classic jellied eel recipe presents a unique way to enjoy the fish. Overall, the meat is firmed. The fat of eel melts in the mouth along with the jellied soup bringing out nothing but the freshness.
This is not easy. Even back in HK where we have thousands of restaurants serving eels in a hundred ways, a lot of them failed to handle the eel well enough to prevent the fish from getting very fishy. This is the same case in the UK. This shop is the only one out of 3 that I do not taste anything fishy. So, well done!
It’s a big loss to the culture that I see so many old shops have closed. If you happen to come across this little shop one day, just give it a go and it won’t disappoint you.
This is a losing taste. Try it before it’s too late.
Excellent pie and mash shop and exactly what you'd hope for and expect: simple menu, cheap and cheerful, good pies and good value for money. Didn't try the eels, but will save that for next time. This place is CASH ONLY! So remember that if you're going to visit. Will definitely be coming back.
If you like traditional Pie & Mash, Stewed or Jellied Eels then this is the place to be. The food is absolutely delicious and well priced. Whether you are a Leyton Orient F.C. fan or an away supporter this is the ideal place to have a meal before a match or a pint.
An error has occurred! Please try again in a few minutes